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Synonyms

calibrate

American  
[kal-uh-breyt] / ˈkæl əˌbreɪt /

verb (used with object)

calibrated, calibrating
  1. to determine, check, or rectify the graduation of (any instrument giving quantitative measurements).

  2. to divide or mark with gradations, graduations, or other indexes of degree, quantity, etc., as on a thermometer, measuring cup, or the like.

  3. to determine the correct range for (an artillery gun, mortar, etc.) by observing where the fired projectile hits.

  4. to plan or devise (something) carefully so as to have a precise use, application, appeal, etc..

    a sales strategy calibrated to rich investors.


calibrate British  
/ ˈkælɪˌbreɪt /

verb

  1. to measure the calibre of (a gun, mortar, etc)

  2. to mark (the scale of a measuring instrument) so that readings can be made in appropriate units

  3. to determine the accuracy of (a measuring instrument, etc)

  4. to determine or check the range and accuracy of (a piece of artillery)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

calibrate Scientific  
/ kălə-brāt′ /
  1. To check, adjust, or standardize a measuring instrument, usually by comparing it with an accepted model.

  2. To measure the diameter of the inside of a tube.


Other Word Forms

  • calibrater noun
  • calibration noun
  • calibrator noun
  • recalibrate verb (used with or without object)
  • uncalibrated adjective

Etymology

Origin of calibrate

First recorded in 1860–65; calib(e)r + -ate 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They calibrate asset allocation to align your portfolio with your goals and values.

From MarketWatch

The prime minister insisted on what he saw as the merits of "calm discussion" - but had to judge how to calibrate his response, both publicly and privately.

From BBC

Once in place, the tool would allow the EU to more easily calibrate its trade response.

From The Wall Street Journal

They then use inflation data to calibrate these thresholds for previous years going back to 1979, when the necessary data series start.

From The Wall Street Journal

They softened their words and calibrated their tone in ordinary conversations.

From The Wall Street Journal